First Scottish LGBTI awards launched

SCOTLAND’S national lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex equality and human rights charity has launched its first awards.

The charity’s first annual awards will be held at Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow, and will recognise and celebrate those who have made a positive contribution in Scotland over the past year.

Over 300 guests will attend the red carpet event, with recognition for leading politicians, journalists, public services, businesses, staff networks, community groups, and individuals who have been outstanding supporters of LGBTI equality.

Nominations for the awards have now opened

Nominations for the awards have now opened, and will close on 2 July, with the shortlist announced on 16 July and public voting to begin on the same date.

The Equality Network anticipate several thousand nominations for the awards, in what they say has been “a year of historic progress and inspiring work for LGBTI equality in Scotland”.

Progress has included the first same-sex marriages, the launch of the Scottish LGBTI Sports Charter, the first Commonwealth Games LGBTI Pride House, and most recently the news that Scotland is now rated the best country in Europe for LGBTI legal equality.

Historic

Scott Cuthbertson, Development Coordinator for the Equality Network said: “This has been a year of historic progress and inspiring work for LGBTI equality in Scotland, and the first Scottish LGBTI Awards are a chance to recognise those that have made important contributions to that work, from volunteers and community groups, to politicians, journalists, businesses and our public services.

“Despite the advances made, we know that there are still big challenges ahead to ensure full legal and social equality for LGBTI people in Scotland, and we hope that as well as celebrating the work that has been done so far these awards will also inspire others to work for progress in the future.”

The awards are sponsored by UNISON Scotland, and the Humanist Society Scotland.

Nominations for the awards can be made at www.equality-network.org/nominate